Secret meeting, Mourinho fury - How Sir Alex Ferguson convinced Raphael Varane on Man Utd destiny

Former Manchester United defender Raphael Varane announced his retirement from football on Wednesday - but his career almost took a different path in 2011.

The former United centre-back never really hit the heights of his previous spell at Real Madrid, while at Old Trafford, but he went out in style; playing his final game in the 2-1 victory over Manchester City in last season’s FA Cup final victory.

Since then, he signed for newly promoted Serie A outfit Como but has struggled for fitness, calling it a day after featuring for just 23 minutes in northern Italy. He confirmed the news, with a statement posted to Instagram, which read: "They say all good things must come to an end.

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"In my career I have taken on many challenges, rose to occasion after occasion, almost all of it was supposed to be impossible. Incredible emotions, special moments and memories that will last a lifetime.

"Reflecting on these moments, it is with immense pride and a feeling of fulfilment that I am announcing my retirement from the game that we all love.

"I hold myself to the highest standard, I want to go out strong, not just holding on to the game. It takes a big dose of courage to listen to your heart and your instinct. Desire and needs are two different things."

Despite, featuring 95 times for United and winning the FA and Carabao Cup, his best years came in Madrid where he won four UEFA Champions Leagues, and three La Ligas - just to mention a few of his 18 medals from his time in the Spanish capital.

On the international stage, he was part of the France team that defeated Croatia in the 2018 FIFA